Smelly Ear Wax: What Ear Wax Odor Can Tell You About Your Health

Summary: Ear infections can be a real pain! There are two main types: swimmer's ear, which happens in the ear canal, and middle ear infections, which happen behind the eardrum. If your ears hurt, it is best to see a doctor before putting anything inside them to make sure your eardrum isn't torn.

Safe home remedies include taking simple pain medicine, using a warm compress, or making ear drops from equal parts white vinegar and rubbing alcohol. However, you should completely avoid ear candles or herbal drops, as they can actually hurt your ears! To stop infections before they start, remember to clean your earbuds often, treat your allergy congestion, and dry your ears out after swimming.

For more details, see rssapp-livestrong-com at livestrong.com/article/13779198-smelly-ear-wax/ (opens in new tab)